Nnamdi Kanu’s release won’t be a condition for south-east to support Tinubu in 2027 – Umahi

Minister of Works David Umahi says the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), should not be seen as a condition for the south-east to support President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election.

Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Friday, Umahi clarified that President Tinubu is not responsible for Kanu’s continued detention and maintained that any discussions regarding his release should be approached through dialogue and not political pressure.

“Somebody asked me about Nnamdi Kanu, and I said his matter is not a condition for the south-east to support the president,” Umahi said. “We are willing to negotiate his release, but no one should make it a condition because the president did not put him there.”

Kanu has been in detention since June 2020, after being extradited from Kenya. He is currently facing trial on a seven-count charge bordering on treasonable felony, filed by the federal government. Several groups and individuals have called for his release, citing human rights concerns and the need for national reconciliation.

Umahi urged that such calls be guided by responsibility and dialogue rather than ultimatums. “President Tinubu may not be perfect, but he is doing most things right. Look at where he picked up the economy from. The international community has confidence in his reforms. That is why we are getting support for our projects.”

He also dismissed claims that the Tinubu administration is sidelining the south-east in federal appointments and infrastructural development. “Let those criticising the president show us what they have done for the country,” Umahi said.

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